In-stock DIY kits?

[Shpigford]

I'm looking for a DIY kit to dip my toes in the water. I'd like to assemble everything myself (including soldering), but I'm just looking for a kit that comes with all the parts I need so I don't spend ages piecing things together myself.

I've seen lots of recommendations but everything I'm finding is out-of-stock. So...is anyone aware of in-stock DIY kits?

Ideally a 65% layout, but I'm not too picky at this point as I'm really just looking for a kit to learn how all the things work.

I'm US-based and my budget is $200, though I'd prefer less.

[Leslieann]

Check KBDfans and Krepublic as well as YMDK on Ali Express.

Keep in mind all of these are Chinese so even if in stock it's going to take a while to get it as shipping is slow boat only and they are short staffed in many cases.


$200 is a start and there is stuff well below that, but don't be surprised if you go over a little. My advice, if you are borderline if you want to spend it, spend the extra. It's easier to spend an extra $20 now than you spend another $60 and a few hours undoing work you already did. Do it right the first time.

[nevin]

keeb.io has some great, inexpensive kits. most are not your standard keyboards though. they make a bunch of split/ergo boards.

most high end boards are sold through group buys.

[Shpigford]

Thanks for the recommendations. I definitely don't need anything fancy...just looking for a starter kit of some sort. I care more about actually being able to find *something* in stock rather than it being the greatest, fanciest board to ever get built.

[abstractkb]

I agree with getting something from either KPRepublic or Keeb.io, I got my first 2 boards from them and like both of them, as well as it being a good learning experience.